Research shows that the onset of winter and lower temperatures put aging adults at risk for a variety of injuries and health problems. These range from hypothermia to slips and falls on snow or ice and even frostbite. Therefore, below is a list of winter safety tips that will keep older adults protected.
Why Are Aging Adults at Greater Risk?
Several factors put those 65 years of age and older at greater risk during winter. People within this age group tend to have weaker immune systems than younger people, so this makes them more vulnerable to vitamin deficiency and winter infections such as pneumonia or flu. Their bodies tend to be frailer, making them more susceptible to bone fractures resulting from falls on ice.
Hypothermia
Hypothermia is a condition in which the body’s temperature falls to a hazardous level. This typically occurs when someone is exposed to freezing temperatures for long periods which causes their body to rapidly lose heat. Its symptoms include fatigue, sleepiness or confusion, slowed heart rate, walking difficulties, and skin that appears ashy or pale. To prevent it, you must:
- Keep internal room temperatures at 65 degrees or higher
- Minimize outdoor activity during the winter
- Remain dry since damp clothing cools the body rapidly
- When going out in cold weather, wear two to three layers of clothing that are loose fitting, along with boots, a coat, mittens, and a scarf.
Snow Shoveling Injuries
Many independent-minded elders want to shovel snow themselves rather than having a younger person do it for them, and while it does exercise your body, get you outdoors and provide health benefits, it can lead to injuries. Those with cardiovascular disease should exercise caution as the activity can strain the heart, and those with osteoporosis might also sustain damage. Before engaging in this activity, speak with a physician to find out if it’s safe.
Frostbite
Frostbite is a condition where the skin sustains damage that can extend to the bone. It results from extreme cold and is most frequently seen in body parts that are the furthest from the heart, such as hands, fingers, toes, and ears. In the most extreme cases, frostbite can lead to amputation and those with cardiovascular or circulation issues are at the greatest risk.
- During its early stages, frostbite can be treated by placing the affected area under warm but not hot water
- Keep every area of your body covered when going out into cold weather, especially your extremities
- If you notice your skin turning dark or red or you feel pain, get indoors immediately.
Slips and Falls
It is easy to slip and fall when moving along ice and snow, and recovery can be difficult for those advanced in age, particularly if they sustain bone fractures or concussions. To prevent it, you’ll want to:
- Clear walkways and steps before passing through them
- Move carefully on wet or icy pavement
- Wear boots that have non-skid style soles
- Use a cane with an ice pick for extra traction.
By following the above tips, you can prevent the majority of winter calamities that afflict those in the 65 plus age group. These tips will also help elders with less balance and coordination and those suffering from cognitive decline or dementia who might otherwise wander off in frigid temperatures without being adequately clothed.
